Tronchi glass emerged in mid-20th century Italy, during a golden era of design that fused innovation with craftsmanship. Rooted in the centuries-old traditions of Murano glassmaking, tronchi was developed as a modern interpretation of Venetian glass artistry - defined by its cylindrical, textured tubes that resemble tree trunks, or "tronchi" in Italian.

This style gained prominence in the 1950s-1970s, particularly through the work of celebrated Italian lighting manufacturers, who used these sculptural glass elements in dramatic chandeliers and wall sconces. Their luminous, stacked forms reflected the era's love for bold design and artisan detail, blending architectural structure with organic texture.

Today, tronchi glass continues to represent modern luxury, prominently featured in private residences, Hotels, and public spaces, honoring the artistry and timeless appeal of this iconic craft.

Molten glass is gathered on the end of a blowpipe, then blown into a cast-iron mold with vernical ridees inside, creating the hollow, faceted texture that defines tronchi tubes. While still hot and pliable, the glass is elongated and smaathed by hand or machine Glass blowers may shape the ends to be more refined or fared, depending on design specs.

The glass tubes are placed in an annealing oven to cool slowly and evenly, preventing Internal stress or cracking. Once cooled, the glass is cut to length and polished for smooth, chip-resistant edges. Some tronchi pieces are enhanced with subtle color tints, such as amber, smoke, or pink, adding depth and visual interest to the glass.

The individual tubes are mounted onto metal frames, often using hooks. The repecoon of zubes creates a watertali-like chandelier or sconce effect, diffusing light beaupfully through the textured alass.

Tronchi lighting was a staple of high-style interiors in the 1960s and '70s, often seen in luxury hotels, glamorous foyers, and dramatic dining rooms. Now, it's finding a fresh footing in interior design. Part of the appeal lies in the tension it creates-between vintage and contemporary, softness and structure. Today's designers are pairing tronchi chandeliers with minimalist spaces, sculptural furniture, and natural textures to create a sense of curated contrast. In any setting, tronchi glass is having a moment, and designers everywhere are leaning into its bold beauty.

"Tronchi glass has this beautiful duality. It feels both vintage and futuristic at the same time, bringing depth and drama without feeling overworked," LA Desinger, Megan Murphy